Former Legal Assistant Charged With Impersonating Lawyer
A Charleston official faces charges after allegedly using a fake title to demand compensation for traffic damages.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Crime — General
Lashonda Charlen Ravenell has been charged with impersonating a lawyer after allegedly sending a fraudulent demand letter. She worked as a legal assistant for the Ninth Circuit Public Defender's Office at the time of the incident.
Why it matters
The case highlights the risks associated with unauthorized practice of law and the abuse of public office letterheads for private financial gain. Authorities are investigating the extent to which official resources were misappropriated.
Lashonda Charlen Ravenell is currently booked into the Al Cannon Detention Center on a charge of impersonating a lawyer. The South Carolina Bar confirmed that the 37-year-old suspect does not hold a license to practice law in the state.
The players
Lashonda Charlen Ravenell
She is a 37-year-old former legal assistant at the Ninth Circuit Public Defender's Office who faces criminal charges.
South Carolina Law Enforcement Division
This is the state-level agency responsible for investigating the criminal conduct and filing charges against the suspect.
Ninth Circuit Public Defender's Office
This public institution provides legal defense services for indigent defendants in the Charleston area.
South Carolina Bar
This professional organization regulates the practice of law and maintains the licensing records for all attorneys in the state.
The details
Ravenell allegedly used official letterhead from the Ninth Circuit Public Defender's Office to send a demand letter to an individual involved in a collision. The document, which falsely identified her as a Senior Assistant Public Defender, sought $8,180 in damages.
Timeline
September 11, 2025: A three-vehicle traffic collision occurred on Interstate 26.
February 4, 2026: The suspect allegedly sent the demand letter for damages.
Legal Context
This case follows recent trends in South Carolina where authorities have prioritized the enforcement of laws protecting the integrity of the judicial system. The investigation marks a stern response to the unauthorized practice of law in the Charleston area.
The incident has prompted a review of document security protocols within local public defender offices to prevent future unauthorized usage of official stationery. Residents are advised to verify the credentials of any individual claiming to represent a government legal office.
The takeaway
Verifying the identity and licensing status of legal representatives is a critical step for individuals receiving unexpected demands for payment. When in doubt, residents should contact the official office directly to confirm the legitimacy of any correspondence.
Further reading
For more on legal developments in the city, visit the Crime — General section.
